This pretty 17th-century 'Plantation' home looks even more stunning in late May when the lawns and woodlands become blanketed with swaying bluebells. Take a stroll through the Beech Tree walk and enjoy the view from the old tower.

In the woodlands at Castle Coole the dazzling bluebells are especially prolific. The popular wild flowers were planted here by the daughters of the 4th Earl over a hundred years ago and make their annual appearance every May/June.

Castle Ward, County Down

Part gothic castle and part classical Palladian Mansion, this unique 18th century house is famed for its mixture of architectural styles. The wider estate offers plenty to explore from the Georgian farmyard to the shores of Strangford Lough, and in spring time there are around 5 miles of bluebell trails waiting to be discovered.

Downhill Demesne, County Londonderry

Visit this stunning landscape demesne where you’ll find magnificent clifftop walks, affording rugged headland views across the North Coast. Discover Mussenden Temple and the striking 18th-century ruins of Downhill mansion. Bishop’s Gate garden and glen is a great place for the whole family to relax and enjoy the delights of nature waking up – especially during bluebell season.

Lisnabreeny, County Down

Take a wander through the wooded Cregagh glen at Lisnabreeny, and follow the path as it winds up to the hill fort on the summit of the Castlereagh hills, just east of Belfast. In springtime the woods are full of flowers, including wood anemone and carpets of bluebells.

Minnowburn, County Down

Set on the southern edge of Belfast, Minnowburn is a tranquil refuge with meadows and woodlands stretching down to the Lagan river. There’s also plenty of wildlife to look out for, from the blue flash of a Kingfisher to an Otter poking its head above the water. Wander through the woods in spring to see a haze of bluebells.

Mount Stewart, County Down

The mild climate around Mount Stewart has allows a wide range of plants to grow, from the Mediterranean specimens in the formal gardens to the wooded areas with their range of plants from all corners of the world. Even so, in spring time it’s the bluebells that are the stars of the show as they cover the grounds with swathes of colour.

Murlough National Nature Reserve, County Down

Murlough National Nature Reserve is home to one of the most stunning beaches in County Down and there are paths running through the dunes and heathland. You’ll see lots of wildlife and carpets of wildflowers in spring, including a dazzling display of bluebells in the woods.

Strangford Lough

Strangford Lough is a unique and wonderful place of immense international importance for nature conservation. It is the largest sea lough in the British Isles, covering an area from Angus Rock at its mouth on the Irish Sea, to the vast sand-flats. It’s one of only three designated Marine Nature Reserves in the United Kingdom. Nugent’s Wood, at Portaferry, is one of the last refuges for the native red squirrel and is the perfect place for discovering bluebells.